It’s Poinsettia Time!
One of hundreds of poinsettia’s grown each year in the greenhouse of the Alcorn Experiment Station.
Now, that the most beautiful time of the year is just around the corner, many people are decorating their homes and workplaces. One of the ultimate pieces of the holiday décor is poinsettia. The colors of these most popular holiday flowers expand from classic red to pastel yellow to vibrant bi-colors.
To help keep your poinsettias beautiful throughout the holiday season and beyond, Dr. Patrick Igbokwe, director of Alcorn’s Experiment Station, shared some valuable tips.
- For the poinsettia to bloom as long as possible, maintain a temperature of 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day.
- Poinsettias are tropical plants and they do not tolerate drafts and a touch of a cold wall or window. Also, keep it away from your air conditioner’s vent and protect it from extreme shift in temperature.
- Water the plant whenever the surface feels dry to the touch, usually every 2-3 days. If your home tends to be dry and your poinsettia is in direct light, you will find yourself watering frequently, possibly every day.
- Water until it drains out the bottom, but do not let the plant sit in water. Place water in the tray and take care not to water the leaves.
Happy holidays!
